Estate planning helps people protect their belongings and ensure their loved ones receive support. Life insurance plays an important role in this plan by providing immediate funds, covering taxes, and managing expenses. Understanding how life insurance fits into...
San Jose Estate Law Blog
When is a will valid in California?
Creating a valid will is an important step to ensure that your assets go to your chosen beneficiaries after your death. California law outlines specific requirements for a will to qualify as legally valid. Understanding these requirements helps prevent disputes or...
What rights does a spouse have in probate if omitted from a will?
In California, a spouse has significant rights during probate, even if omitted from a will. The state’s laws aim to protect spouses from being unintentionally excluded from their fair share of an estate. Understanding these rights can help spouses navigate this...
How can young adults benefit from establishing advance directives?
Advance directives outline a person’s choices for medical care when they cannot speak for themselves. These documents, often linked with older people, offer many benefits for young adults too. Making sure medical choices align with preferences Serious accidents or...
What to do when you are left out of a will or trust
Dividing a loved one's estate is often complex and emotional. Feeling confused, upset or betrayed is natural if you have been left out of a will or trust. The good news is that there are legal avenues you can explore to address the situation. You have the legal means...
How do POAs interact with other estate planning documents?
A power of attorney (POA) is an essential part of an estate plan, but it does not work alone. POAs interact with other estate planning documents, such as wills and trusts, to create a comprehensive plan for managing assets and making decisions. Understanding how...
How to choose the best guardian for your children
Choosing the right guardian for your children is one of the most important decisions you make as a parent. Your estate plan reflects not only your assets but also your hopes and priorities for your children’s future. There are some important factors to consider when...
How does undue influence affect the validity of a will?
Imagine learning that your loved one's will has changed dramatically in their final days. You're shocked to discover that a caregiver or distant relative now stands to inherit most of the estate. This unsettling scenario often signals undue influence. Unfortunately,...
How can trusts protect assets from creditors?
Trusts can be helpful tools for keeping your assets safe from creditors. By properly establishing and managing a trust, individuals can secure their wealth for future generations while reducing the risk of losing assets to lawsuits or unpaid debts. Types of trusts...
Can an executor be held liable for mismanaging estate funds?
An executor plays an essential role in administering an estate after someone passes away. However, the position comes with significant responsibilities. In California, an executor can be held liable if they fail to manage estate funds properly, causing financial harm...